Springfield Armory M21 Tactical

Description

The Springfield M21 is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in 7.62 NATO or .308 Win. The M21 was a modified M14 that was used by snipers during the Vietnam conflict. The civilian version was designed for precision shooting.

The M21 is different from the M1A because it has an adjustable drop at comb.

The M21 is available with either a stainless steel Krieger barrel, which has a moly-chrome lined bore that’s corrosion resistant, or a Douglas air gauged heavy match barrel. Air gauged quality means designers pushed air through the barrel and measured the amount that escaped. The process determines the tolerance (or consistency of design) of the bore. It basically proves the barrel shoots accurately and keeps a tight seal on the propellant gases as they push the projectile out of the bore. It also has a rear lugged receiver that increases available bedding area. With a larger bedding area, any wear is distributed to a wider body in turn less direct wear and an increased lifespan.

It is gas-operated, so propellant gases are captured by a tube near the muzzle, which directs the gas into a valve on the bolt, and the gas pushes the bolt back so it can eject a spent casing and chamber a fresh round.

Its features include a national match two-stage trigger that sets off the action with a 4.5- to 5-pound pull. A match hooded rear sight aperture that’s like looking through a pinhole. It’s also adjustable for windage and elevation. It has a fixed blade front sight. The national match flash suppressor helps reduce muzzle climb, so the shooter can stay on target after every shot. The barrel rests on a glass bedding, which acts as an intermediary so when the barrel heats and swells it will press against the bedding instead of the stock and stay on target.

Springfield recommends the M21 for precision and competitive shooting.